Ken Sheldon

I primarily study goals, motivation, and psychological well-being. I am active in the "positive psychology" movement. Research questions include, "is it possible for people to become happier, and if so, how?" "Why do people pursue overly materialistic goals, and how can they be helped to select more satisfying goals?" "What is the nature of optimal motivation and optimal functioning?"

Sheldon, K. M. & Filak, V. (2008). Manipulating autonomy, competence, and relatedness in a game-learning context: New evidence that all three needs matter. British Journal of Social Psychology, 47, 267-283.

Sheldon, K. M., Houser-Marko, L., & Kasser, T. (2006). Does autonomy increase with age? Comparing the motivation and well-being of college students and their parents. Journal of Research in Personality, 40, 168-178.

Vansteenkiste, M. & Sheldon, K. M. (2006). There is nothing so practical as a good theory: Integrating self-determination theory and motivational interviewing theory. British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 45, 63-82.

Sheldon, K.M., Ryan, R.M., Rawsthorne, L., & Ilardi, B. (1997). "True" self and "trait" self: Cross role variation in the big five traits and its relations with authenticity and well being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 73, 1380-1393.